Nelson L. Spoelman, 74

Nelson L. Spoelman, 74, of Banks Township, died June 28, 2012, at Hiland Cottage in Petoskey.

He was born Nov. 23, 1937, in Charlevoix, the son of John and Edna (Zylstra) Spoelman.

He received his bachelor's and master's degrees from Michigan State University, graduating with honors.

Mr. Spoelman taught math at Ellsworth Community School and served as principal and superintendent. He moved to Alaska in 1968 where he taught math and coached hockey. He also built two homes for the family, served as a hunting guide and did commercial fishing.

Upon retirement in the early 1990s, he moved back to the family farm in Banks Township and enjoyed country living. He was an avid and successful hunter and fisherman. He also enjoyed woodworking.

Surviving are his children, Debra Knox of Anchorage, Alaska, Derrik (Barbara) Spoelman of Mesa, Ariz., and Gregg Spoelman of Central Lake; grandchildren, Mariah Knox, Griffen Knox, John Spoelman, Claire Spoelman, Fallon Spoelman, Paige Spoelman Garret Spoelman; brother, Theodore (Leona) Spoelman of Muskegon; sister, Joyce (Dwayne) Spoelman Evans of Clare; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, John Spoelman, and mother, Edna Spoelman; brother, Lewis Spoelman; and loving friend of 17 years, Patricia White McCarthy. He will be deeply missed by family and friends.

A memorial service took place at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 30, at Hastings Funeral Home in Ellsworth, with the Rev. Doug Blackwell officiating.

Inurnment will be in Lakeview Cemetery, Torch Lake Township.

For those wishing to make memorial contributions, the family suggests Banks Township Fire and Rescue or Hiland Cottage.